Poovar

This paradise has been titled under 50 must-visit places in India by the National Geographic Traveller.The point where the sea, river and the land meets is a rare find in Kerala and a natural wonder. Poovar Island is truly a window into paradise and all you could ask for a perfect holiday destination. It is easily reachable and has a few but isolated and beautiful places to visit. Poovar Beach is the most famous place to visit in Poovar. Separating the Arabian Sea and River Neyyar, it is accessible only via waterways. It is a very scenic beach which is dotted with coconut palms and provides the luxury of solitude and relaxation. Another beach, Kovalam Beach, is one of the prime beaches in India. Located at a little distance from Poovar, it is ideal for indulging in water sports, sunbathing and swimming. Also known as the fishing village, the tranquil island lies between the Arabian Sea and the Neyyar River.  To know the typical Kerala coastal village, you can visit The Fishing Village and know about the unique ways of living of locals. You could also go to the natural port, Vizhinjam. It is very famous for its Ayurvedic treatment centres and internationally acclaimed beach resorts. Known for its pristine charm, the island is flocked by peace-lovers.  A visit to this heaven makes one feel that the clock has stopped ticking. The sheer beauty of this place goes well with the crashing sound of waves and chirping of birds. The deep blue sea, emerald green waters, crimson sunset and golden sands make this island a colourful paradise. The nearby Poovar Island Resort makes your stay even more magical by providing lots of activities. 
With selected yet landscaping places to visit, Poovar is undoubtedly a perfect coastal holiday destination.

There is an interesting story about how Poovar got its name. When Marthanda Varma Maharaja was declared as the successor of the King, Ettuveetil Pillamar, the other two sons with the help of Madampis tried to seize power. Therefore, the Maharaja had to run away and he ended up in Poovar. Moosa Marikar, a prosperous and noble businessman, provided him with a safe place. He also helped the Maharaja to regain his lost kingdom. During his stay at Poovar, Marthanda Varma was fascinated by the beautiful red flowers, from the Kovala trees which flanked the banks of the Neyyar River. The flowers floating in the river seemed like a red carpet. It is believed that the Maharaja described the river as 'Poo-aar' meaning 'a stream of flowers' and this was how Poovar got its name.

Visiting a coastal area gives you a chance to savor the mouth watering delicacies. Poovar being a fishing hub offers some of the most delicious fish dishes you ever tasted. In fact, the town houses several multi cuisine restaurants and road side shacks serving local, Chinese, Tamil and North Indian cuisine. You will find a liberal use of coconut in the dishes quite refreshing.

Day 1- From your hotel or resort you can head off to the famous Poovar Beach, after a late breakfast. You can have a good beach time here in solitude. It is not at all crowded and is very clean and beautifully landscaping, separating the Arabian Sea and River Neyyar. Leave the beach late afternoon and relax at the hotel.
Day 2- Next day can you can take a houseboat cruise to the Fishing Village. You can get to understand the lives of the fisher folks and typical coastal villages of Kerala. You can also engage in fishing. You could also visit a century-old martial arts village to learn about the ancient martial art form of Kerala - Kalaripayattu.
Day 3- This can be another beach day. However, with recreational activities like water sports. Kovalam Beach can be the place, which has 3 beautiful crescent-shaped beaches, Lighthouse, Hawwah, and Samudra Beach. Lighthouse being the most famous, however, all of these beaches are extremely beautiful. You can leave the beach late afternoon and visit the natural sea port, Vizhinjam. It is internationally acclaimed for its beach resorts and Ayurvedic treatment. After a long day, you can indulge in an Ayurvedic treatment or a massage, which is healing and relaxing at the same time - just what you need on a holiday.